She turns her head. “I’m not sure yet. We’ll have to get used to it.”

“It’s yours, Delaney. Just as I am.”

I loosen my grip and she turns around. Closing my eyes as she touches my cheek, I kiss her hand.

“I feel like I’ve waited forever for this,” she whispers.

Opening my eyes, I press my forehead to hers. “I know what you mean. Now, we start our life together.” I take a breath. “I’ve been thinking …”

“Did it hurt?” She laughs.

“Maybe when you two are all settled in, we could talk about expanding our family. I don’t know how you feel about it, but we were both only children, and I don’t want Amelia to grow up alone.”

Delaney lights up. “I love that idea.”

I’ve never felt so complete.

* * *

After a quick tour of the rest of the house, I lead Delaney and Amelia into the kitchen. It’s on the same level as the bedrooms, and it’s cosy and welcoming.

I chuckle at the sight of Reece at the table eating a sandwich. He has an innate habit of making his way to where the food is.

Delaney’s eyes go straight to the appliances. I knew they would.

“There’s someone I want you two to meet.”

Mrs Becker walks out of the walk-in pantry and smiles at my girls.

“Delaney, this is Mrs Becker. She’s the housekeeper and she organises all the jobs to be done around the house like cleaning and cooking.”

Delaney’s not often unreadable, but she is in this moment. I’m not sure she expected this, but then again, I know she’s tired. “It’s nice to meet you, Mrs Becker.”

“You too.” Mrs Becker looks at me. “Did you all want something to eat?”

“I’m sure Delaney and Amelia do. It’s been a long flight for them.”

“Of course.”

Delaney shakes her head. “I’d really just like a coffee.”

“I’ll make you one. What does Amelia eat?”

Delaney shrugs. “Pretty much anything. Did you want something to eat, honey?”

Amelia nods. “A peanut butter sandwich.”

“Well, that’s easy to take care of.” Mrs Becker gives us a smile and I guide Delaney to the table while the food and drinks are being made.

Amelia climbs onto a seat next to us.

“Are you okay?” I ask.

Delaney nods. “Just really tired. I’ll have a drink and then nap, I think.”

I kiss her temple. “Whatever you need.”

I’m sure it’ll take a little time for them both to settle in, but they’re with me.

And that’s all that matters.

Forty-Four

Delaney

Fairy tales do come true.

I know because I’m living one. But something’s missing.

My life is surreal. I’m with the man I love, feeling like the princess in the castle who’s got her happily-ever-after with her prince.